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Rhode Island gambling regulators are considering ending the state’s single-operator sports betting model and introducing competition as early as 2026. The move could invite leading sportsbook brands such as DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Ballys to enter the market.
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The Rhode Island Lottery confirmed that it is reviewing submissions from eight companies interested in joining the state’s digital sports betting landscape. Respondents include Ballys, Fanatics, Kambi, DraftKings, BetMGM, OpenBet, FanDuel, and IGT, which currently operates the only approved platform through its partnership with Ballys.
Lottery spokesperson Paul Grimaldi said the agency is “moving ahead with its examination of whether adding more apps is feasible.” He added that officials are evaluating the benefits of increased competition and the potential impact on state revenue.
Ballys spokesperson Patti Doyle reaffirmed that the company remains interested in participating in a future request for proposals. Fanatics representative Kevin Hennessey said the operator “publicly supports an open and competitive market in Rhode Island for legal sports betting.” DraftKings spokesperson Parker Winslow noted that the company “continually explores opportunities” and had previously backed legislation that would permit three to five licensed operators by mid-2026.
The current single-operator setup, which ties IGT and Ballys to exclusive digital rights, expires in late 2026. Regulators are using the interim period to study how expanding access could affect competition, consumer experience, and tax revenue.
A Senate bill to expand the number of licensed operators, introduced by Senate Majority Leader Frank Ciccone, passed the upper chamber earlier this year but stalled in the House. A companion measure from Representative Matthew Dawson also failed to advance.
Proponents argue that a multi-operator model could help Rhode Island recover lost revenue to neighboring states. Massachusetts reported over $11 million in taxable sports betting revenue in August from seven active platforms, while Connecticut collected about $13 million from three operators. Rhode Island, with only one app, generated roughly $3 million during the same month.
Expanding the market could improve consumer choice and bring in new tax income, but critics warn that more platforms could raise gambling exposure among young adults. Rhode Island currently allows sports betting from age 18, compared with the 21-year minimum in Massachusetts and Connecticut.
A University of New Hampshire study found that 15% of Rhode Island residents place sports bets occasionally, slightly below Massachusetts at 18% and Connecticut at 17%. Supporters believe that a more competitive market could help capture a portion of those bettors who currently use out-of-state or offshore apps.